“Tackle the Giant” is a game commonly played among children in the middle kingdoms. The game revolves around players attempting to attack and topple the “giant” player. The “giant” player is whoever happens to be tallest or largest. Sticks and stones are often used to aid players in their goal.

Wandering through the streets of Minten looking for any familiar faces or signs to Elizabeth’s location, Harold and George stopped to gather their thoughts. Harold was quite obviously very anxious and losing hope quickly, and George took notice. Spotting a crowd of children sitting idly by, watching the clouds pass by, he hatched a plan to lift Harold’s spirits.

“Hey there, kids! Do you like to play ‘Tackle the Giant’?” George asked, flashing his friendliest smile.

“Yeah we do! It’s our favorite game!” the young girl with the black hood proudly stated.

“Great! I’ve got quite the giant here for you to tackle!” George chuckled as he said this, grabbing Harold’s shoulder and tossing him into the excited crowd. “Best of luck! Guard your kneecaps, they’ll be aiming for those!”

Harold grabbed a stick and frantically attempted to hold his own against his tiny adversaries. George was booming with laughter as the little ones circled around him, smacking him with sticks here and there.

Around him, daily life was undisturbed. Red priests sat at the side of the road, selling potions and books, making maps and paintings. Women washed articles of cloth and pulled water from the well. Others wandered aimlessly, and one particular thief was in hot pursuit from a few guards.

To his right came a familiar face. Ryan had returned at last, albeit dressed in unfamiliar green and black garb. Holly was given the backpack to carry around, and a beautiful young woman tailed close behind. Puzzled at first, it dawned on George fast enough. This was no doubt the heavily sought after Elizabeth.

After Ryan confirmed it was indeed Elizabeth, the three stood together watching Harold get battered by the children. Tears welled up in Elizabeth’s eyes. Though she hadn’t seen Harold in years, she still felt the unconditional love and affection for him. To think, Harold had spent all this time looking for her, never once giving up.

“Hey, George. How do you think Scott’s holding up?” Ryan asked, remembering how one of the most crucial elements of their party was still imprisoned.

“I’m sure he’s doing just fine!” George stated, rather absent-mindedly. He was still entranced by Harold’s improvised tournament with some on Minten’s finest giant slayers.

The next chapter of my story, this time based around the three (or is it now four? ) non-incarcerated party members. The chapter after this is in the works, worry not! Built for the CCCXI: A Child's Life category. C&C welcome!